Edo State Police Command says it has recorded a major breakthrough in its sustained fight against kidnapping and related crimes, with the arrest of 113 suspected kidnappers during a coordinated Joint security operation in Edo Central.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command said the intelligence-driven operation was carried out on February 26th, 2026, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika.
According to the statement, security operatives acted on credible intelligence that ransom proceeds were being received and coordinated at identified “Zangos” in Agbede and Iruekpen, prompting the Commissioner to personally lead a Joint Taskforce in a massive security sweep of the affected areas.
The operation involved operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, alongside vigilante groups and local hunters.
The coordinated raids were conducted on identified Zango settlements where suspected kidnappers and their collaborators allegedly converge to receive ransom payments, regroup, and blend with unsuspecting members of the public.
The raids led to the arrest of the suspects, who are currently undergoing profiling and investigation to determine their levels of involvement in kidnapping and related offences. Those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to dismantling kidnapping networks across the State, stressing that the onslaught will not only target armed elements in the forests but will also disrupt their financial and human support systems.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring that all intelligence received will be treated with utmost confidentiality.
The State Police Command says it remains resolute, proactive, and battle-ready to safeguard lives and property, warning that there will be no safe haven for kidnappers or their collaborators anywhere in the State.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
